Buccaneers could have big Baker Mayfield problem in 2026

TL;DR

Baker Mayfield has excelled with the Buccaneers, leading them to two playoff appearances and two Pro Bowls. However, he will be in the final year of his contract in 2026, raising concerns about a potential extension or the need for a replacement.

Key points

Baker Mayfield has been superb for the Buccaneers.
He has led the team to two playoff appearances.
Mayfield is in the last year of his contract in 2026.
A big extension may be needed, or a replacement could be sought.

Tampa Bay BuccaneersBaker Mayfield

Buccaneers could have big Baker Mayfield problem in 2026 originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

There's no denying that ever since the Tampa Bay Buccaneers signed Baker Mayfield, he's been superb for the franchise.

Making the playoffs twice in three seasons, making two Pro Bowls, and playing some of the best football of his career, Mayfield has established himself as one of the better quarterbacks in football.

But entering 2026, there could be a huge problem coming for Tampa Bay -- Baker is in the last year of his deal.

That means a big extension could be forthcoming, or the Buccaneers might have to look for his replacement.

For NFL.com's Kevin Patra, it's a big decision the franchise has to make.

"Baker Mayfield's contract situation will be discussed plenty this offseason,” Patra wrote. “Paying now would increase his cost but might save the Bucs money -- and some headaches -- in the long run.”

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Buccaneers to pay up for Mayfield?

Well, if they want to keep the Pro Bowl quarterback around, they'll have to. But it won't be cheap.

Spotrac.com has Baker's market value at $53.6 million APY, which would put Mayfield in the upper echelon of the highest-paid quarterbacks in football.

Considering the Buccaneers had Baker for roughly $33.3 million APY, it is going to be quite the jump in salary for Mayfield, but will Tampa want to pay that sort of money?

Q&A

What contract situation does Baker Mayfield face in 2026?

Baker Mayfield will be in the last year of his contract in 2026, which may require the Buccaneers to consider a contract extension or find a replacement.

How has Baker Mayfield performed with the Buccaneers?

Baker Mayfield has made the playoffs twice and been selected to two Pro Bowls during his time with the Buccaneers, showcasing some of the best football of his career.

What are the implications for the Buccaneers if they don't extend Baker Mayfield?

If the Buccaneers do not extend Baker Mayfield, they may need to search for a new quarterback to replace him after the 2026 season.